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LAWMAKER ON WHEELS — Ejercito’s love for Phl sports is one of a kind
Senator JV Ejercito’s love for cycling is hard to miss. From interviews to his social media posts, the 53-year-old lawmaker would always find a way to display his love for cycling — and sports in general. That’s why in a recent interview with Daily Tribune, Ejercito took the opportunity to preach the benefits of cycling and how he wants to spearhead the staging of more local and international tournaments that would encourage a lot of enthusiasts to take the sport seriously. “We need to have more competitions like Ronda Pilipinas. I hope somebody picks up the cudgels for it to continue because competition improves the quality of our athletes,” said Ejercito, referring to the annual professional road cycling competition that covers major cities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The prestigious bikefest started in 2011 and has drawn the interest of the best local and international riders. It, however, got canceled this year as it prepares to transition from being an annual to a biennial event. “We need competitions,” Ejercito stressed. But batting for the staging of a professional cycling competition is just a mere fraction of Ejercito’s love for the sport. In fact, during the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Ejercito took the cudgels for the cyclists when he slammed the Inter-Agency Task Force for raising the proposal of requiring cyclists to wear face shields on the road. Ejercito stressed that this proposal will put the cyclists’ lives at risk as they might suffer hypoxia or lack of oxygen. Having first-hand experience on the challenges of the sport, Ejercito asserted that the proposal might create more harm than good. “I am not in favor of requiring face shields to those who are biking and exercising. This might cause hypoxia or lack of oxygen. While breathing hard, intake of oxygen is already minimized with masks so what more if they will require them to wear face shields? This can be fatal,” Ejercito said. “Cyclists usually are away from each other. Face shields should be required in enclosed and crowded places. There is already a mask that is required anyway.” “Wearing a face shield while cycling is dangerous. The mask is enough.” But that’s not all. Ejercito also fought hard for the rights of cyclists through Senate Bill 393 that pushes for more bicycle lanes in major thoroughfares. He believes that by putting up bicycle lanes, the government would encourage the public to bike to their respective schools or offices instead of riding cars, buses or trains. The public would also get to save a lot on their transportation expenses while helping the government solve the worsening traffic situation. “This legislation is one way to help unburden commuters who are choosing to ride their bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles in order to escape the worsening traffic situation and save money on fares and fuel, especially now that prices of petroleum products have skyrocketed,” the bill’s explanatory note said. Ejercito said the government will also benefit from this proposal. “Though we admire such resilience and innovation, the government should also look into improving road conditions for alternative means of transportation,” Ejercito, the son of former President Joseph Estrada, said. “Until such a time that the government has finished its goal to provide mass transportation that is people-centered and accommodating to every walk of life, there will always be room for alternative forms of travel.” Ejercito admitted that he even considered riding his bicycle to work. “Even I couldn’t bear it each time I load up on gas. I shell out P5,000 every time. It’s hard on my pockets. Hopefully, I can save by biking to work,” Ejercito said. As of May 2023, about 546 kilometers of bike lanes were already established in Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao, according to the Department of Transportation. Aside from cycling, Ejercito also plays golf and boxing. He is also an avid fan of basketball. In fact, he was at the sidelines when Gilas Pilipinas battled China in the FIBA Basketball World Cup together with other senators in Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Joel Villanueva and Juan Miguel Zubiri. Ejercito said if there will be a chance, he will gladly lend a helping hand to Philippine sports. After all, he is no stranger to grassroots sports after serving as chairman of the committee on youth and sports when he was still representing San Juan City in the House of Representatives. With him in charge, he was able to help the Philippine Sports Commission with its funding that led to the rise of promising athletes like Hidilyn Diaz, who went on to become the country’s first Olympic gold medalist. “There’s no specific NSA (national sports association) but if there is an opportunity, I will help. I box, I cycle and I even played basketball before,” the mild-mannered Ejercito said. Truly, sports, especially cycling, occupies a very special place in Ejercito’s heart. And he will keep on helping Filipino athletes — one pedal at a time. The post LAWMAKER ON WHEELS — Ejercito’s love for Phl sports is one of a kind appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights
Congratulations are in order for the whole Gilas Pilipinas Team for their monumental win versus China (96-75), ending our FIBA World Cup 2023 campaign on a hopeful note. I have always believed in the capabilities of our athletes who have shown their mettle in international sports competitions. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am rallying all Filipinos to support our long-term roadmap to elevate the standing of our athletes in the global arena in all sporting events. Filipinos have excelled in the global stage not just in basketball, billiards, or boxing which are relatively the more popular sports in the country. Take for example Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, EJ Obiena in pole vaulting, Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, the late Lydia de Vega in track and field, and, of course, the Filipinas Football team who made us proud during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Our very own Alex Eala is also a rising star in the world of tennis. We have many talented athletes, and we should support them in their quest to give honor to the country. However, success in any sporting event does not come easily. Any athlete will tell you that sports entails discipline, many hours of hard work, and even years of sacrifices. Hence, our efforts to strengthen our chances on the global stage must start at the grassroots level. This is the rationale behind RA 11470 or the National Academy of Sports or NAS law, which I authored and co-sponsored, and signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2020. The NAS System will provide scholarships to qualified student-athletes from all regions and will allow them to balance academics and sports training by utilizing the state-of-the-art facilities at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. I am also advocating the approval of Senate Bill No. 423 or the Philippine National Games or PNG Act, to institutionalize the conduct of the PNG every two years as this will allow us to discover those with athletic potential at the grassroots level. We have talented athletes, but the government must invest in providing them with opportunities to compete if we want to produce champions on both the national and international stages. I am pushing for SBN 2116, which will amend Section 8 of RA 10699 or the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.” This will increase the incentives for para-athletes who will win medals in international competitions and make our approach more inclusive to all athletes regardless of their physical limitations. Our efforts to achieve victory in sports must reflect the diversity of our country. The government, together with the private sector and other stakeholders, must consistently provide all the support that our teams need to compete at the global level. Our focus must be on creating opportunities for all aspiring athletes, regardless of geographic or economic background, to excel in their chosen fields. Hence, we should bring our sports development programs closer to those who have the potentials and aspirations to represent our country and bring pride to every Filipino. More importantly, sports is not only a physical game but a means to uplift lives, keep our youth away from vices like illegal drugs, and strengthen camaraderie in our communities. Let us elevate sports as a viable tool in harnessing our citizens into disciplined, productive and patriotic individuals reflective of our Filipino pride. In the same way that we unite to support our athletes, let us also unite to support fellow Filipinos in need. That is why I have continued to engage with various sectors of society to listen to their concerns and help provide solutions to their daily struggles. Filipinos inherently have a “never say die” attitude, especially in sports which is reflective of our resilience as a society. But aside from this commendable trait, our resilience also stems from our inherent compassion for each other. Our “Tapang at Malasakit” must continue so that together, we can uplift the lives of Filipinos. As a Senator and public servant, I remain steadfast in supporting our athletes to reach greater heights while also exerting efforts to help bring government programs and services closer to those in need to provide them with opportunities for a better life. The post FIBA World Cup experience: Springboard to greater heights appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go salutes Filipino athletes at Palace concert
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go celebrated the unwavering love and dedication embodied by the “pusong Pilipino” spirit of Filipino athletes during the “Konsyerto sa Palasyo” at the Malacañang’s Kalayaan Grounds last Sunday. With President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in attendance, the event paid tribute to more than 300 Filipino athletes who have represented the Philippines in various sports disciplines, showing to the world the unmistakable heart of the Filipino. In an interview during the event, Go reiterated his commitment to championing the rights and welfare of Filipino athletes. Expressing his gratitude to Marcos for honoring the country’s athletes, he remarked “As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, full support po ako parati sa ating mga atleta.” Among the honored guests were world boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, gymnastics sensation Carlos Yulo, former national fencer Richard Gomez, and the groundbreaking Philippine Women’s Football Team (Filipinas), which made history by becoming the first Filipino team to compete in the FIFA World Cup. Go has been vocal about how engaging in sports can lead to a holistic individual and societal development. He continues to advocate for initiatives fostering an environment that encourages more Filipino athletes to participate in sports and contribute to the nation’s success in international competitions. Go authored and co-sponsored the measure that became Republic Act 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports in 2020. The NAS provides high-quality secondary education with a special sports-oriented curriculum for gifted young Filipinos who wish to enhance their physical and mental sports capacities. The post Go salutes Filipino athletes at Palace concert appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Vingegaard wins second successive Tour de France
Jonas Vingegaard won his second successive Tour de France on Sunday after Jordi Meeus claimed the final stage honors on the Champs-Elysees in Paris. Denmark's Vingegaard of the Jumbo-Visma team crossed the finish line after the 21-day race 7min 29sec ahead of Slovenia's Tadej Pogacar, the champion in 2020 and 2021. Pogacar's UAE teammate Adam Yates of Great Britain rounded out the top three podium. Vingegaard's winning margin was the largest since 2014 when Italian Vincenzo Nibali took the fabled champion's yellow jersey by 7min 39sec. "I enjoyed fighting for this win with 'Pogi' and Yates, but now I'm just looking forward to having a nice dinner here in Paris with my family," said the champion. "It was a long, hard race and one day ran into another but there's a feeling of being proud and happy. "Winning for the second time is amazing with all the Danish people here. I hope to come back to take a third win, at least try it." Despite finishing runner-up, Pogacar was happy to focus on the positives. "Considering everything it's been a great Tour, I have to be happy with that," Pogacar said after picking up his best young rider jersey for the fourth time. "We have two guys on the podium, and I won two stages and the white jersey. I love cycling," he said. The final stage was won by outsider Meeus of the Bora team, with Jasper Philipsen denied a fifth stage win on this Tour right at the line in a photo finish. "What a wonderful finish, it's been such a high level Tour," said the surprise stage winner. - Cracked - The world's greatest bike race provided tense drama with spectacular backdrops as Vingegaard and Pogacar remained separated by seconds until the Dane edged ahead with a sensational individual time trial last Tuesday. The following day, on a 28km climb to the ski resort of Courchevel, Pogacar cracked, shouting "I'm gone, I'm dead" before Vingegaard killed off the race with a sensational final climb. The event had been billed as a showdown between the defending champion Vingegaard and Pogacar, who has won the Tour twice and now come second twice. Tour director Christian Prudhomme used boxing terms to describe the struggle. "They went 15 rounds and then there was a punch in the gut, a knee on the floor and a knock out punch," he said Sunday. All time great Eddy Merckx told AFP the pair had delivered a thrilling show. "Pogacar is a more complete rider, but in the high mountains at least, Vingegaard remains the stronger," he said. "I don't know what happened to me. I took on too much this year and after two weeks I started to look as white as this shirt," said runner-up Pogacar, pointing to his best under-25 rider's white jersey. Pogacar started well enough, taking minor advantages in the Basque hills until Vingegaard attacked on the first mountain stage in the Pyrenees to take the overall leader's yellow jersey. And while Pogacar clawed back a few seconds here and there, the defending champion never relinquished the lead all the way to Paris. Runner-up in 2021, the softly-spoken Vingegaard was the only rider to challenge the Slovenian prodigy in the high mountains. In 2022, he went one step higher and won the title at altitude, and it proved to be the case again in 2023, but with a Tour of such poise and dominance his claim to be targeting a third straight title must be taken seriously. "The Tour de France is the greatest race in the world," beamed the 26-year-old. "There's something so special about it and I can tell you I'll be back again next year to try and win it again." dmc/dj © Agence France-Presse The post Vingegaard wins second successive Tour de France appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Anak ni Manny Pacquiao na si Michael pumasok na sa pagnenegosyo sa House of Franchise
ISA na ring negosyante ngayon ang 21-anyos na si Michael Pacquiao, anak ni world boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Pumirma na ang rapper at student- athlete sa House of Franchise. Taon 2020 nang ipamalas ng nakakabatang Pacquiao ang kanyang talento sa pag-awit sa pamamagitan ng kanyang debut single “Only You.” Simula noon ay nakilala na siya […] The post Anak ni Manny Pacquiao na si Michael pumasok na sa pagnenegosyo sa House of Franchise appeared first on Bandera......»»
‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family
Planning to just stick to your couch and stream movies on Father’s Day? No problem. Here are my top seven picks of ‘dad movies’ to stream right now. Have your dad join you, or the entire family, for a Father’s Day marathon and bond with laughter and tears! ‘FIELD OF DREAMS’ (1989) Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) is a dad to Karin. He’s also a famer suddenly swept into a controversy when he decides to build a baseball diamond on his land — just because a mysterious voice whispered it into his ear. This popular and absorbing fantasy-drama has already become a cult classic for its themes of chasing one’s dreams and, of course, family. Rent on iTunes ‘LIAR LIAR’ (1997) One of the best comedy fantasies in the ‘90s, Liar Liar is surely going to be a big hit to your home-viewing with your dad. Sure, you may have seen this already, but so what? Carrey plays an attorney who is not only dishonest, he often breaks his promises to his poor son, Max (Justin Cooper). When Max wishes his dad would stop lying for 24 hours, it’s a riot! Rent on iTunes [caption id="attachment_146055" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF universal pictures | JIM Carrey as Fletcher Reede in ‘Liar Liar.’[/caption] ‘MRS. DOUBTFIRE’ (1993) This is one of the late Robin Williams’ most memorable classics. Divorced dad Daniel (Williams) is extremely bothered that he has limited access to his kids. So he dresses as an elderly British woman and applies as a nanny to his ex-wife Miranda (Sally Field) just to be with his kids every day. Both hilarious and touching, it never fails to engage you no matter how many times you’ve seen it. Stream on Disney+ ‘CINDERELLA MAN’ (2005) Inspired by the life story of world heavyweight boxing champion James J. Braddock, Ron Howard’s weeper Cinderella Man is set during the Great Depression. Braddock (Russell Crowe), a washed-up actor, struggles as a manual laborer to feed his family. With his morals and integrity intact, he is a father whose love for his family knows no bounds and gives them wisdom in the midst of adversity. Unforgettable. Stream on Disney+ ‘KING RICHARD’ (2021) This is the fact-based movie that earned Will Smith his Oscar Best Actor award after slapping Chris Rock on national TV. Whether you hate Smith or not, you’re gonna be stunned by his superior performance as the super-inspiring father and coach to celebrated tennis players Venus and Serena Williams. Stream on HBO Go ‘THREE MEN AND A BABY’ (1987 Directed by Leonard Nimoy, and based on a 1985 French script, it follows three New York City roommates Peter (Tom Selleck), Michael (Steve Guttenberg) and Jack (Ted Danson). All men are successful and satisfied with being single. But when a baby is abandoned in front of their apartment, they became instant dads. Funny and heartfelt. Stream on Disney+ ‘DADS’ (2020) This AppleTV+ original documentary explores modern fatherhood. The great thing about this docu is that it features all types of dads. We get testimonies from ordinary dads around the world and even famous comedians. Sweet, positive, oftentimes funny — and, yes, prepare to wipe a tear or two. Stream on AppleTV+ The post ‘Dad movies’ to watch with the family appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go lauds Capiztahan Swimfest, sends out aid to indigents
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, congratulated the provincial government of Capiz, led by Governor Fredenil Castro, for successfully holding its Capiztahan Swimfest from 14 to 16 April at the Villareal Stadium in Roxas City. “Nais ko po sanang batiin lahat ng mga manlalaro na nagmula sa iba't ibang panig ng rehiyon upang makilahok sa kompetisyon na ito. Ang inyong dedikasyon at pagsisikap ang nagdala sa inyo dito, at tiyak na ibibigay ninyo ang inyong buong puso sa inyong laban,” expressed Go through a message delivered by his representative present during the event. Go was scheduled to personally join the event that day but due to technical issues with the aircraft, his visit was rescheduled to Monday in Capiz where he visited the Malasakit Center in Roxas City. He also joined the groundbreaking of two Super Health Centers and provided assistance to indigents in Panit-an and Panay towns. “As we all know, sports play an essential role in our lives. They not only keep us physically fit but also help us develop important values like discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. They also teach us to face challenges and overcome them with determination, which is a valuable lesson that we can apply in all aspects of our lives,” he continued. The Swimfest is just one out of the 14 sporting events featured in Capiztahan 2023 as there will also be jujitsu, windsurfing, taekwondo, arnis, lawn tennis, invitational motocross, chess, boxing, mixed martial arts, table tennis, bodybuilding, skimboard, and criterium race. The sports festival aims to promote physical fitness, healthy competition, and camaraderie among the residents of Capiz, particularly the youth. It also provides a platform for local athletes to showcase their skills and talents in various sports and to represent their respective towns and cities in friendly competitions. “Sa lahat ng mga magulang at guardians na naririto ngayon, nais kong pasalamatan kayo sa inyong pagsuporta sa mga pangarap ng inyong mga anak na mahilig sa sports,” cited Go. “Ang inyong pagmamahal at suporta ang nagtulak sa kanila upang magpatuloy sa kanilang mga pangarap, at hindi nila makakamit ito ngayon kung hindi sa inyong walang-sawang suporta,” he added. Go’s team also raffled off a pair of shoes and a bike for the participants of the swimfest. Board Member Thea Faith Reyes was present during the event and expressed gratitude to Go for his continuing support of the province. Meanwhile, Go’s team led a relief operation for 1,000 indigents at the Civic Center. They gave away grocery packs, vitamins, snacks, masks, and shirts to the residents. They also provided bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, umbrellas, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were also in attendance and extended financial assistance. “I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the organizers of this event, including the local government, for their hard work in putting together this wonderful competition. It takes a lot of effort and dedication to organize such an event, and I commend you for your tireless efforts,” Go highlighted. “Let us all enjoy this day of healthy competition and camaraderie. To all the swimmers, I wish you the best of luck, and may the best person win. Patuloy nating itaguyod ang sports upang maitaguyod ang ating pagkakaisa at magandang kinabukasan para sa ating bansa,” he concluded. On the same day, Go sent his outreach teams to Panay and Panitan towns to likewise assist struggling residents. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, was instrumental in pushing an additional budget for the Philippine Sports Commission in order to support the preparation, training, and participation of Filipino athletes in upcoming sports competitions and to implement effective programs to hone the skills of more young and aspiring athletes. Particularly, the increase in the PSC's 2023 budget reflected in the General Appropriations Act is intended to support Filipino athletes in the 2023 Asian Games, 2023 Southeast Asian Games, and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. It can also be recalled that Go has successfully authored and co-sponsored a bill in the Senate which became Republic Act No. 11470 in 2020. The Act mandated the establishment of the National Academy of Sports System and Main Campus in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. “Simula sa grassroots level, d’yan talaga nag-uumpisa ang mga atleta natin. Kaya rin po naisabatas na ang National Academy for Sports, isa pong eskwelahan kung saan po nakakapag-aral at the same time nakakapag-training ang mga kabataan. Pag-aaral at the same time training, training at the same time pag-aaral. Walang naisasakripisyo,” said Go. The lawmaker also introduced Senate Bill No. 423 or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022. The proposed measure aims to institutionalize “a truly comprehensive national grassroots sports program, which will harness the vast potential of the citizenry in discovering and developing champion athletes who could excel in international sports competition, thus giving the country pride and international goodwill and addressing the long-standing problems of Philippine sports in general.” Furthermore, the bill seeks to ensure a more inclusive system of promoting promising Filipino athletes who possess potential in various fields of sports to be given an equal opportunity of becoming future contenders in international sporting competitions and cement the country’s status as a "Sports Powerhouse in Asia." The post Go lauds Capiztahan Swimfest, sends out aid to indigents appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Prince’ Pagara returns to ring after two-year break
CEBU CITY, Philippines—Former world-rated and former WBO Inter-Continental super bantamweight champion “Prince” Albert Pagara faces Allan Villanueva as he returns to the ring after a two-year hiatus. Pagara, the former ALA Boxing Gym prospect, hasn’t been seen in the ring since December 2020, when he last fought against Virgil Puton im the undercard of Omega […] The post ‘Prince’ Pagara returns to ring after two-year break appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Team PH: Tokyo Olympics by the numbers
4 -- It’s mission accomplished for Team Philippines at the Tokyo Olympic 2020+1, churning out its best performance ever with a gold, courtesy of Hidilyn Diaz in weightlifting, two silvers from boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, and a bronze medal by Eumir Marcial, also in boxing.....»»
Petecio to carry PH flag at closing ceremonies of Tokyo Games
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Nesthy Petecio the Philippines’ silver medalist in women’s featherweight boxing was designated to carry the country’s tricolors at the closing ceremonies of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on Sunday, August 8, at the Tokyo National Stadium. POC President, Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said in a press release that they vested the honor on Petecio […] The post Petecio to carry PH flag at closing ceremonies of Tokyo Games appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
How depression almost knocked Nesthy Petecio out of boxing
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalist almost never made it to the Games......»»
Marcial loses to Ukrainian, settles for Olympic boxing bronze
It’s the end of the road for Eumir Marcial in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and the gallant Filipino boxer will take home a bronze medal......»»
'BanderaBabae: Top 5 Baes sa Tokyo 2020 Olympics
WHO run the world? Siyempre, girls! Tulad nga ng lyrics sa kanta ni Beyoncé, tuloy tuloy nga ang pamamayagpag ng kababaihan sa kasalukuyang Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Muli na namang ngang pinahanga ng isang babae ang buong Pilipinas matapos nitong makamit ang Silver medal sa larangan ng boxing. Tulad ni Nesthy at Hidilyn, marami pa sa […] The post #BanderaBabae: Top 5 Baes sa Tokyo 2020 Olympics appeared first on Bandera......»»
Naomi Graham, from being homeless to being rescued by the military
“the boxing He saved me in so many ways,” he confirms Naomi Melissa Grahamrepresentative of United State In the Tokyo Olympics 2020. the boxer From.....»»
Olympian Fact Sheet: Carlo Paalam (Boxing)
Paalam is the third Filipino pug to see action in Tokyo 2020, clashing with Ireland’s Brendan Irvine in a men’s flyweight fight on July 26......»»
Pro boxing review: Five Pinoys reign as world champs
The Philippines fell one man shy of duplicating the record for most Filipino world boxing champions in the same year, but under pandemic conditions, it was still a remarkable feat as super WBA welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao, WBO bantamweight titlist JohnRiel Casimero, interim WBC bantamweight ruler Reymart Gaballo, IBF superflyweight king Jerwin Ancajas and IBF minimumweight beltholder Pedro Taduran ended 2020 on top of the world......»»
Crawford crushes Brook with fourth-round TKO
LOS ANGELES: Unbeaten Terence Crawford won his first fight of 2020 on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) by defending his World Boxing Organization welterweight title with a stunning fourth-round knockout of Kell Brook in Las Vegas. American Crawford shook off ring rust from a long layoff due to the coronavirus epidemic with a statement victory over […].....»»
Unbeaten Crawford TKOs Brook, eyes Pacquiao next
Los Angeles, United States—Unbeaten Terence Crawford won his first fight of 2020 on Saturday (Sunday Philippine time) by defending his World Boxing Organization welterweight title with a stunning fourth-round knockout of Kell Brook in Las Vegas......»»
Crawford wins over Brook, targets Pacquiao
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Unbeaten Terence Crawford won his first fight of 2020 on Saturday by defending his World Boxing Organization welterweight title with a stunning fourth-round knockout of Kell Brook in Las Vegas. American Crawford shook off ring rust from a long layoff due to the coronavirus epidemic with a statement victory over […].....»»
Eduard Folayang: When an underdog finally became a world champion
In the five years that I was with the ABS-CBN Sports website, I was fortunate enough to have covered quite a number of memorable sports moments, so when I was asked to write about which was the most memorable for me, it was tough to narrow it down to just one single coverage. I could have written about Letran’s momentous upset of a dynasty-seeking San Beda in the NCAA Season 91 Finals, or I could have written about the Philippine Azkals making history by clinching a spot in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. Being an MMA fan, I could have written about getting to be Octagon-side for the UFC’s first and only trip to Manila, which was indeed a dream come true for me. When I think about it however, the coverage that sticks with me to this day, even four years later, was being cage-side, just inches away from Eduard “Landslide” Folayang as he pummeled Shinya Aoki to become the ONE Lightweight World Champion in Singapore back in 2016. I tell people about that night all the time, and I believe I’ll continue to do so for the rest of my life. A Fan First As I mentioned earlier, I’m an MMA fan. In fact, being a fan was actually how I eventually got into sports writing. During my first year or so with ABS-CBN, I got wind of a show on Balls Channel entitled “The Takedown” which was, you guessed it, about the UFC. Immediately, I knew that I wanted to be a part of that show, in any capacity. I even offered to research or write for free, LOL. While I never did get to work on the show (because unfortunately, it lasted only a few episodes), I did get to make some connections (shoutout to Sir Lori, Ms. Jo, and Ms. Anna!) which eventually landed me a gig as a UFC writer for the Balls Channel Website. During that time, I got to meet and interview stars like BJ Penn, Alexander Gustafsson, Urijah Faber, Cung Le, and even Arianny Celeste. For an MMA fan like me, it was like working a dream job. It was a pretty sweet gig. Eventually, that job with the Balls Channel Website would lead me to a spot on the ABS-CBN Sports Website which was launched in 2015. By 2016, I had started covering Asia-based MMA promotion ONE Championship quite a bit because ABS-CBN had signed a broadcast deal with them, and because ONE had a ton of homegrown Pinoy fighters on their roster, most notably Folayang and the Team Lakay guys. Folayang, whose contract with ONE expired in March of 2016, re-signed with the promotion and returned to action in August, defeating Adrian Pang by Unanimous Decision in Macau. That win over Pang earned Folayang the biggest bout of his career at that point: a title shot against reigning champion Aoki. When I learned of that title fight, I was very excited for Folayang, but had little expectations for his chances, being that Aoki was a legend in the sport. Best Seat in the House Eduard Folayang finally getting to fight for a world championship was a huge deal for Filipino MMA fans, especially those that had followed the Baguio-based star’s career since his days in the URCC. The Pinoy star was on ONE’s first ever event, but could never seem to gain enough momentum to compete for a world title, until that point. That November night in Singapore, all the years of work sacrifice that Folayang had put in during his nine-year MMA career would finally pay off. This was only my second time to cover a ONE event overseas, so apart from having to write stories, I also had to take pictures. Learning from my past mistakes, I asked if I could have a spot cage-side so that I could take some at least decent photos. Thankfully, the ONE people agreed and gave me a spot just beside one of the judges’ tables. I had the best seat in the house. Now, as I said, I had tapered my expectations for the fight. I had seen what Aoki could do in the cage. I’ve seen the guy break peoples’ bones before, so honestly, I was just hoping that he wouldn’t injure Folayang. Our guy was the underdog heading into this fight, no doubt about it. Of course, as a Filipino and as a fan I was hoping for a massive upset. The beautiful thing about MMA is anything can happen. Shock The World This was legitimately the first time that I felt nervous covering a fight. It’s like that feeling you have when your favorite basketball team is in a close game with just seconds left. That first round was a frigging whirlwind of emotions if you’re a Pinoy MMA fan. It looked like Aoki was within moments of being able to submit Folayang on multiple occasions. The second round was a little bit more relaxed for Folayang, especially since he had been able to survive Aoki’s opening round grappling blitz. It looked like he was a bit more confident and he started to throw some of his trademark spinning kicks and elbows. A miscalculated flying knee attempt led to another Aoki takedown, but this time around, Folayang appeared a little more calm and relaxed under the pressure. Late in the round, Folayang began to attack Aoki’s torso with punches and kicks, and it looked like it had the Japanese legend a bit winded. The tide had shifted. Heading into the third round, there was a different feeling in the air. It felt like Aoki was done, and it felt like Folayang knew it. In the opening seconds of that fateful third frame, Folayang knew exactly what Aoki was going to do and had an answer for it. Aoki shot in for a takedown, and Folayang countered it with a jumping knee to the jaw. For a brief second, Folayang was on his behind, but managed to outmuscle Aoki and deliver another vicious knee. “Oh sh*t!” I yelled internally while scrambling to take photos of the ensuing beatdown. Folayang turned Aoki over and began to connect with punch after unanswered punch. Without taking my eye away from my camera’s viewfinder, I started yelling for Folayang to finish it. Folayang continued to punish Aoki with piston-like punches as the Singapore Indoor Stadium began to erupt. For what felt like an eternity, referee Yuji Shimada watched as Folayang unloaded nine years worth of heartbreak and frustration into a ground-and-pound sequence. And then, it was over. There was a new lightweight king. AND NEW! EDUARD FOLAYANG STOPS SHINYA AOKI IN ROUND 3! — Santino Honasan???? (@honasantino) November 11, 2016 The Landslide Reigns As much as I would have wanted to keep it cool, I started to freak out. I looked to my right and saw my fellow Pinoy journalists doing the same, one was even standing on the table, cheering the new world champion on. At that point, I had watched UAAP championships, NCAA championships, even some boxing world championships, but this one was different. I knew what Folayang had gone through. I knew that the odds were stacked against him. As the confetti began to rain down and the celebration inside the ring continued, I recomposed myself and started to take pictures again. I wanted to be able to capture this moment. After the official decision and the post-fight interview, I remember calling out to Folayang so that I could take a photo of him with his shiny new toy. I’ve gotten to witness other members of Team Lakay become champions since then. I’ve been blessed enough to see Geje Eustaquio, Kevin Belingon and Joshua Pacio all become titleholders within a single year. While getting to see Team Lakay draped in gold to end 2018 was definitely a sight to behold, being there cage side as ‘Manong Ed’ realized a life-long dream was definitely an experience that I won’t soon forget. Folayang's title win wasn't Team Lakay's first world champmionship, and it isn't the last. For me however, I think it's the most important, because it showed that no matter how many times you fall, you can still find your way to the top. Everyone loves a good underdog story. -- Santino Honasan has served as a sub-section editor for ABS-CBN Sports' website since 2015. He is among thousands of ABS-CBN employees who will be retrenched on August 31, 2020. .....»»